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While the Tobacco Control Act regulates various aspects of tobacco regulation, it lacks specific provisions for Suki, creating loopholes that hamper public health efforts, according to Trade Minister Manoa Kamikamica.

He highlighted this during the release of a Consumer Council report titled Smoke Signal: Understanding the factors influencing Suki consumption in Fiji.

Kamikamica noted that 83 percent of the report’s respondents consider souks to be affordable and 89 percent consider them to be affordable.

Minister of Trade Manoa Kamikamica

He says this widespread availability provides livelihoods, but perpetuates tobacco addiction and health risks, especially in lower-income areas.

Kamikamica also claims that the report shows that 71 percent respondents switched from cigarettes to sukas due to their lower price, indicating a significant economic impact on tobacco use.

He argues that despite the economic benefits, this change does not reduce health risks.

“The government recognizes the economic importance of the tobacco trade, including Suki, in securing livelihoods. However, the long-term health costs of tobacco smoking, including health care costs and lost productivity, are significant. Policy decisions must prioritize public health while balancing economic interests.”

Kamikamica says the government is committed to a comprehensive approach that includes strengthening the legal framework to regulate suka along the lines of other tobacco products.

He says amending the Tobacco Control Act to explicitly include suka, mandating standard packaging and implementing health warnings are key steps.